The Blessing of Good Hair Days
Posted on: May 28, 2015
- In: Everyday Life | Faith
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On Wednesday, I found myself waiting for a haircut and feeling pretty nervous. I’ve been growing out my crazy, curly hair, and the previous haircut had left me with layers that I’d grown out again.
Yesterday, the stylist listened to me, gave me a wonderful cut, and left me with lots of curls. And the barista at the coffee shop served my mocha with a smile. And the friendly bookstore staff helped me find a book my son wanted and store my purchases at the front desk until I finished browsing.
Which might sound like nothing special. But as those who’ve waited for a bad haircut to grow out or been treated by restaurant or store staff as though serving them was a headache know, good service isn’t a guarantee; it’s a gift.
But do we treat it like one?
We might assume people owe us good service because that’s part of their job. I don’t know about most people, but I don’t always do my tasks with the best of grace. Mustering enthusiasm for dusting and laundry challenges me on a good day.
We should consider instead that those who provide excellent customer service may be choosing to bless others with a smile despite dealing with chronic pain, with the best of their skills when they’re worried about loved ones, with efficient and courteous help even though they’re tired after staying up late to look after sick children.
We can choose to treat good service as though it’s our due—or we can bless others by thanking them for their help, giving a good tip or a positive survey review, recommending businesses to others through social media, and continuing to shop and eat where we receive great service. And we can carry this further by blessing others with the best of our skills and expertise, taking a cue from 1 Peter 4:10-11*:
As each has received a gift, employ it for one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who utters oracles of God; whoever renders service, as one who renders it by the strength which God supplies; in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ.
May we be thankful for good service and likewise bless others by serving them with a giving spirit, not a grudging one.
Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.
~ Hebrews 13:16
(*Scripture quotes taken from the Holy Bible, Revised Standard Version, Second Catholic Edition.)
A Catholic Convert in Ottawa 